Donald Eric Winders
January 31, 2017
Donald Eric Winders was born March 27, 1969, to Dale Winders and Marjorie Welch in Des Moines, Iowa. He was a long-time employee of Asplundh Tree Company, and most recent Polk County. He worked so hard and achieved so much in his life. He enjoyed all activities associated with the outdoors. All of his energies spent outside of his work were focused on his only daughter, Erin. His love for his family and friends was abundant and evident in all aspects of his life. You will never meet a man who was a better father, son, brother, or friend.
Donald passed away unexpectedly due to complications of pneumonia on Tuesday, January 31, 2017, at his home in Des Moines at the age of 47.
He is survived by his daughter, Erin Winders and her mother Cora Brooks; his mother, Marge Welch (Kent); father, Dale Winders; siblings, Kelly Winders, Kirk Winders (Jill), and Susan Williams (Terry); step-sisters, Beth Hunsberger (Isaac) and Kristin Schroeder (Brian); several nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews; and countless extended family and special friends.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 8:30 p.m., with a time of sharing from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, February 7, 2017 at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines. Graveside committal service will be at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, February 8, 2017 at Laurel Hill Cemetery, 3601 East Court Avenue, Des Moines.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations payable to Erin Winders or go to https://www.youcaring.com/erinwinders.
Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Jim & Carrie Beck
02/02/2017
Donny was a man who was full of life and laughter. He had a huge impact on many lives and had the deepest love and devotion to his daughter Erin. Words can't express our gratefulness to God for having him in our lives and our thoughts and prayers go to the family and friends who share in his remembrance.
"Handy Mandy"
02/02/2017
Donny, u once saved my life & I am forever greatfull! I just wish I could of saved yours. U were already an angel in my eyes! Till we meet again
Mark Riley
02/02/2017
We really enjoyed Donny's smile and how he loved his life today. He was very glad to have gotten the job with the County. He loved his daughter and was very proud of her. We will miss him on Saturday mornings!!
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Dean Sukowatey
02/02/2017
Erin,
Your Dad was a terrific man that was so incredibly proud of you. Donny always was so grateful and encouraging - always sharing with me his valuable life experience. We all are so sorry for your loss.
Dean
Kathy Andreas
02/02/2017
I can't believe this is real! I can't believe that we are all going to have to say good bye to such a great guy and good friend. I am heart broken on every level....Anyone that knew Donny, already knows how huge this kid's heart was and his never ending ability to lend a hand to those in need and always the 1st one to offer that hand. I have known Donny for about 23 years and am blessed to say that he was a huge part of mine and my children's lives as they were born and grew up. My heart is wrapped around his daughter and brothers and the rest of his family as they all try and process this unexpected loss. Donny, I wanted to call you 100 times yesterday to talk to you....I don't know if that will ever go away.....tell Jason hi when you see him my dear dear friend!
Leslie (Bryant) Mayo
02/02/2017
Erin,
I am so sad and heart broken. Donnie was a good soul with an amazing heart. He would do anything for anyone.
Please know your dad loved you very much and he was so proud of you. If you need anything please don't hesitate to reach out to me. Love you!
Jill Messler (Kepford)
02/01/2017
I'm so heartbroken over hearing the news of Donnie's passing. I was hoping I would be able reunite with him in the near future as I haven't seen him for years. I wanted to give him a big hug..and now I will never get that chance :( This was so unexpected. I've known him since kindergarten...
Janell Barton
02/01/2017
I am deeply saddened by the news of his passing. I've known Donny since 9 th grade. He was a amazing friend back then and to this day. We went many years without seeing each other life kinda took over. But the last time I see him he hugged me twice and was like we had never missed a beat. I have cried a lot today and will forever be grateful that this kind loving a caring man was apart of my life in some small way.
Kim Cross
02/01/2017
I am so sorry Kirk and Kelly. I am just at shock right now hearing the news. Please know my heart is aching for you and you are in our thoughts and prayers. If there is anything you need, please just let us know.